1 Chronicles 3:6 (KJV)

What does 1 Chronicles 3:6 mean?

1 Chronicles 3:6 lists three of King David’s sons: Ibhar, Elishama, and Eliphelet. This verse is part of a genealogical record, simply naming these individuals as part of David’s family line.

The book of 1 Chronicles was written to document the lineage of Israel’s kings, especially focusing on David’s descendants. In this section, the writer is listing David’s sons by name, providing a record for the people of Israel about their royal heritage. The verse does not give details about these sons’ lives but preserves their names as part of the historical and family record.

The Hebrew behind 1 Chronicles 3:6

• אִבְחָר (Ibhar, transliterated "Ibhar") means “He chooses” or “chosen.” The name itself reflects a theme of selection or being set apart, which fits the context of royal lineage.
• אֱלִישָׁמָע (Elishama, transliterated "Elishama") means “God has heard.” This name often carries the idea of God listening to prayers or requests, a common theme in biblical names.
• אֱלִיפֶלֶט (Eliphelet, transliterated "Eliphelet") means “God is deliverance” or “God is rescue.” The name points to God as a source of help or salvation, which would have been meaningful in a royal family context.

Why 1 Chronicles 3:6 matters

• This verse helps clarify the family tree of King David, which is important for understanding later references to his descendants and the fulfillment of promises made to David’s line.
• The inclusion of these specific names, even without stories attached, shows the care taken to preserve every branch of the royal family, reflecting the value placed on heritage and identity in ancient Israel.
• Knowing the meanings of the names can give a sense of the hopes or beliefs of the people at the time, as names often reflected faith in God’s action or character.